BETHESDA, MD — Alley Cat Allies, the national advocate for stray and feral cats, today urged supporters in Maryland to press their state delegates for support on a bill in the Maryland General Assembly that would pave the way for a statewide spay/neuter fund.

The bill (H.B.339) would set up a task force to examine successful spay/neuter programs in the state and across the nation and – based on those observations – make recommendations to the Governor and state legislature on establishing a state fund to boost access to spay/neuter services. The bill is set for a hearing in committee on Wednesday.

“Programs that increase access to spay/neuter are literally lifesaving, as all neutered cats lead better and healthier lives. But the cost of the procedure can be prohibitive,” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies.

“Spay/neuter as part of Trap-Neuter-Return programs for feral cats improves the cats’ health and stabilizes the population. But many communities do not have access to affordable programs for feral and stray cats,” Robinson said. “Further, studies have shown that for pet cats who are not neutered, owners frequently cited the cost of the procedure as a major obstacle.”

Robinson noted that spay/neuter programs are already in place in about half of all U.S. states, and have been enormously successful.

Alley Cat Allies is urging supporters in Maryland to contact their state representatives and urge passage of the bill. More information is available at www.alleycat.org.

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About Alley Cat AlliesAlley Cat Allies is the nation’s leading advocate for stray and feral cats. Their website is www.alleycat.org.